I wanted to share a few short stories about what I have noticed in Madisi, Malawi, what the Lord has done, and what I admire about this culture and people.
I have been so thankful for soccer in this country. You can find most kids outside playing before and after school. When we were got here, I struggled with knowing how I was going to relate to these kids. A lot of the people in Madisi live in poverty; kids are lucky to be walking around with shoes let alone shoes that fit. How could I, an American who grew up with everything she needed, find a way to relate to these children? Well, one way is through soccer. I love getting outside and playing keep away with kids or playing organized games. Because of soccer, I realized the desire for the kids to just play with us. If we can find ways to spend time with them, they will be happy.
Rain. December is a month of planting in Malawi, so of course these people depend on rain to water their crops. We were told that rain has not come as often as it normally does this time of year, so we prayed. My team has pledged to be in intercession for at least 30 minutes a day. We intercede for each other, for family members back home, for the people we are serving, for the needs in the community, and more. Well we prayed for rain one day and a lot of it. All glory and praise to God, an hour later, it started pouring down rain. For the next 2 days the rain came down off and on. What a blessing to see the Lord answer our prayer. Man, so cool.
A lot of the culture in Malawi revolves around music. I am amazed at how many songs and dances the kids know and are eager to teach us. People burst out in song with their friends when they are bored. I have learned a lot about the Lord through music this month. At church, members in the audience lead worship while every person sings praise to God at the top of their lungs. Oh what a difference it is back home. These people genuinely connect with the Lord through song here, and it is an honor to be a part of it.
Here is a story about bananas. The singing kind. We were asked to lead games at an after-school program with 5th-7th graders. Well given that they love to sing, we taught them a song about bananas. You might know it: Peel banana, peel peel banana, slice banana, slice slice banana, mash banana, mash mash banana, GO BANANAS, GO GO BANANAS. Of course, there are fun dance moves to this song, but unfortunately, I am unable to show you through this blog. We did different variations like about oranges and nsima (a traditional cornmeal type dish they eat). Man, we looked like fools up there, but I have never had so much fun looking stupid. The kids loved learning the dance. The room was filled with so much noise, but it was filled with more joy than I have ever seen.
